Tertre du Moulin, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2021
Type: Red Bordeaux
Grapes: Mostly Merlot with a good helping of Cabernet Franc
Where to Buy: Trader Joe’s ($15.99 as of October 2025)
Tertre du Moulin sits in Saint-Émilion (France), an area known for reds that balance ripeness with structure. This 2021 leans into that tradition without trying to impress through sheer force. It is polished, steady, and very much about proportion rather than drama.
Aroma: What am I smelling and why?
The nose opens with ripe plum and black cherry, followed by a softer red-fruit note that keeps things from feeling too dark. There is a gentle earthy scent underneath, like clean soil after rain, and a light touch of cedar that hints at oak without announcing it loudly. These aromas come from Merlot’s natural fruitiness, Cabernet Franc’s lift, and measured aging rather than heavy-handed winemaking.
Palate: What am I tasting and why?
On the palate, the wine feels medium to full-bodied but controlled. Plum and blackberry lead, with a hint of cocoa and dried herbs coming in mid-sip. The tannins are present but smooth, giving the wine shape without drying your mouth out. Acidity is moderate, enough to keep everything in balance and make the wine feel food-friendly rather than plush. This is a Saint-Émilion that favors clarity over excess.
Preference: Who is this wine not for?
If you are chasing bold, ultra-ripe Bordeaux with lots of oak and weight, this may feel too restrained. Drinkers who want immediate sweetness or softness might find the structure a bit firm right now. It is also not meant to shock or surprise. Its appeal is in consistency and balance.
Enjoy: How and with what?
Serve it around 60 to 65°F, slightly cooler than room temperature. It pairs well with roasted meats, beef stew, or simple steak dishes, especially those without heavy sauces. It also works nicely with mushroom-based meals or hard cheeses. This is a wine that rewards sitting down with dinner and letting the bottle unfold naturally, glass by glass, without asking for your full attention all at once.
